Do male dolphins have the equivalent of a “wingman?” According to a recent study, the answer is yes! Male dolphins in South Australia have been found to work with other males to court potential mates – a cooperative behavior that is virtually impossible for dolphins in captivity.

In the wild, male dolphins form social groups with other males, typically with those in their bloodline, to increase their chances with “the ladies,” and ultimately, reproduction. Lead researcher, Dr. Fernando Diaz-Aguirre explains that the male dolphins in south Australia’s Coffin Bay might form these groups with relatives because, “the groups clearly tend to favour relationships based on blood relations.” Simply put, dolphins, similar to humans, feel the most comfortable with family!

Sadly, males in captivity are unable to form these dynamic social groups with their relatives. Instead, their ability to control their reproduction is stolen from them while they are held in tanks with random groups of dolphins.

Captive females are also denied any control over their socialization and are often forced to undergo the invasive and unpleasant procedure of artificial insemination. Unable to form natural social groups or control their reproduction, dolphins in captivity are deprived of two essential and vital aspects of their lives.

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